By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
Harsh Malhotra and Ravinder Indraj Singh join residents for festive celebrations; upgraded facilities and welfare initiatives take centre stage
NEW DELHI: The spirit of Diwali illuminated Asha Kiran Home in Rohini as the Delhi Government organised a grand Diwali Mela and Milan programme on Friday, bringing festive cheer to persons with disabilities residing at the institution.
Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra and Delhi Cabinet Minister for Social Welfare Ravinder Indraj Singh joined the residents in celebrating the festival of lights. Rithala MLA Kulwant Rana, senior government officials and other dignitaries also attended the event.
The celebrations began with the ceremonial lighting of a lamp, followed by a tour of stalls showcasing products made by the residents. The dignitaries also inaugurated an open gym on the premises. Cultural performances by the residents and a musical presentation by the Anhad Band added to the festive atmosphere.
Addressing the gathering, Union Minister Harsh Malhotra said the Delhi Government, under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta’s leadership, was committed to ensuring that development extended beyond infrastructure and reached the most vulnerable sections of society.
Highlighting the transformation at Asha Kiran Home, which accommodates around 700 persons with disabilities, he said substantial improvements had been introduced over the past 18 to 24 months. These include primary healthcare facilities, improved residential wards, recreational swings, exercise facilities, physiotherapy equipment and other essential amenities.
Malhotra also highlighted improvements across all 17 shelter homes in Delhi, crediting Social Welfare Minister Ravinder Indraj Singh’s efforts. He said residents were now being provided clean and nutritious food, while dedicated male and female staff members were working to ensure their care and well-being.
Describing the opportunity to celebrate festivals with the residents as deeply fulfilling, he extended Diwali greetings to people living in all 17 institutions and appreciated the efforts of the Chief Minister and the Social Welfare Minister.
Speaking on the occasion, Ravinder Indraj Singh said the department had prioritised transforming shelter homes after the formation of the government under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta.
“Ensuring that the benefits of development reach the last person in society is the commitment of Viksit Delhi,” he said.
The minister emphasised that the vision of a developed Delhi went beyond roads, drainage systems and other infrastructure projects. It also meant providing essential facilities, dignity and opportunities to every section of society, particularly those who needed greater care and support.
He said sustained efforts over the past nearly one-and-a-half years had focused on improving healthcare, caregiving, sanitation, recreational facilities and overall living conditions across shelter homes. He acknowledged the guidance of the Chief Minister and the dedication of departmental officials and institutional staff in bringing about these changes.
Underscoring the government’s commitment to the well-being of persons with disabilities, Singh said bringing smiles to their faces and a sparkle to their eyes remained a key priority. Celebrating festivals such as Holi and Diwali with residents, he added, was an effort to strengthen their connection with mainstream society and make them feel included and valued.
Appreciating the Asha Kiran Home staff and departmental officials, the minister said their continued dedication was playing an important role in transforming the institution.
